Expert on Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) at International Alert

International Alert is one of the world's leading peacebuilding  organisations, with over 30 years of experience supporting communities,  advising governments, organisations and companies on how to build  peace. Alert works with people in conflict-affected and threatened areas  to make a positive difference for peace; to improve the substance and  implementation of international policies relevant to peacebuilding; and to  strengthen the peacebuilding sector.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Expert on Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR)

Location: Abuja, Nigeria (with travel to affected regions as required)
Duration: 3 months with possible extension
Type of Contract: Consultancy
Reporting to: Country Director, International Alert
Type of Contract: Consultancy

Objective of the Assignment

• The DDR Expert will support the development and implementation of a cohesive, context-sensitive, and sustainable national DDR framework.
• The Expert will work with stakeholders to align ongoing efforts, promote reintegration of disengaged combatants, and build institutional capacity for effective DDR planning and implementation.

Scope of Work and Responsibilities
The Expert will undertake the following tasks:
Policy and Legal Framework Review:

• Review and assess existing DDR, Amnesty, and deradicalization initiatives in Nigeria.
• Evaluate national policies and legal instruments (e.g., Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, National Action Plan on PVE) for DDR alignment.
• Identify legal and policy gaps and recommend areas for harmonization.

Strategic and Technical Advisory:

• Develop a national DDR strategic framework that is conflict-sensitive and tailored to regional variations.
• Advise on the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for DDR implementation in line with international standards (e.g., UNSCR 2124).

Capacity Building and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Conduct technical capacity assessments of key implementing institutions and recommend targeted capacity building interventions.
• Facilitate coordination among federal, state, and community actors to strengthen information sharing and joint planning.
• Support inclusive dialogue with affected communities to promote community-based reintegration and reconciliation.

Program Design and Monitoring:

• Support design of scalable, evidence-based DDR interventions.
• Define monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) frameworks for DDR activities, including reintegration outcomes and risk mitigation strategies.
• Identify and advise on the implementation of peacebuilding and PCVE-linked interventions complementary to DDR.
• And any other related responsibilities that may be assigned in line with the project’s objectives

Reporting and Supervision:

• The Expert will report directly to the Country Director of International Alert.

Deliverables

• Inception Report including work plan and methodology.
• Comprehensive Review Report of DDR policies, programs, and legal frameworks.
• Draft and Final National DDR Strategic Framework.
• SOPs for reception, rehabilitation, and reintegration of ex-combatants.
• Stakeholder consultation reports.
• Capacity building plan and tools.
• Final Technical Report including lessons learned and recommendations.

Qualifications and Experience
Education:

• Advanced Degree (Master’s or PhD) in Peace and Conflict Studies, Political Science, International Relations, Law, Security Studies, or related field.

Experience:

• Minimum 10 years of experience in DDR, peacebuilding, deradicalization, or related fields.
• Demonstrated experience in advising governments or international organizations on DDR and conflict transformation.
• Proven track record in designing and implementing DDR policies and programs in conflict or post-conflict contexts.
• Familiarity with Nigeria’s security context and DDR initiatives is a strong advantage.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and report writing skills.
• Excellent facilitation, communication, and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Knowledge of international DDR and PCVE frameworks, including relevant UN Resolutions.
• Ability to work in a multicultural and dynamic team environment.

Application Closing Date
10th May, 2025.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should forward their Cover Letter demonstrating understanding of the assignment and an updated CV or company profile with relevant experience, to: nigeria@international-alert.org using the position as the subject of the email.

Note

• Late submissions will not be considered.
• Submissions will be evaluated based on relevance, capacity, experience, and alignment with project goals.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further engagement.